The Los Angeles Clippers are searching for answers following a disappointing end to their 2019-20 NBA season. Changes are in motion and most know that Doc Rivers will no longer be around to call the shots. However, there are more changes to expect. Aside from Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, some players will be leaving the Clippers fold.
One player exiting is Marcus Morris. The 31-year-old will hit free agency and the chances of him returning are unknown. Assuming the 6-foot-8 tries his luck elsewhere, the Clippers could be looking for a replacement. There will be a lot of free agents to consider in the market but Rudy Gay of the San Antonio Spurs could be worth considering.
Comparing their numbers, both players are practically the same, the Bleacher Report reported. Morris averages 10.1 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 28.9 minutes of action last season. Gay, on the other hand, owns norms of 10.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 21.8 minutes per game according to Basketball-Reference.
Between Gay and Morris, the former offers something better on both ends. But the problem with the 8th overall pick of the 2006 NBA Draft is that he is older and that he is no longer as durable as before. He has gone through several injuries already so his health is in question.
But with Leonard and George still around, he could come off the bench and spell either star. Gay could be the perfect guy off the bench, a catch-and-shoot player who can provide offense when the Clips need it. The only problem is that he carries a hefty price tag so it may be best for the team to wait until his contract expires.
The Clippers getting Gay next season may not be feasible for the 2020-21 season. For one, Los Angeles needs to find a way to meet the salary of Gay set at $14 million. Morris is gone but other players may have to be let go. For now, the answer to that is unknown with the Clippers needing to find a new head coach to steer the Clippers in the right direction.
Gay is an option but he is not the only one. Also, there are internal issues that have to be ironed out. Montrezl Harrell is also due to become a free agent and there are teams interested in taking him in Easily, the Clippers have work to do. But until a new man at the helm comes in, all moves are left hanging.
